Thinking about a new mac based system...a little help.

Christof · « **on:** 15 Dec 2007, 03:24 pm »

Guys

I've been using my G5 desktop as a source for that past year or two, I dig it but I would really like to take the big G5 out of the system and put it back to use for photography/design work in my office where it was originally intended to go. Problem is this leaves a gaping hole in my system which I will need to fill. With what? I'm very comfortable with Mac's and would like to continue using one in my system if possible. I want a little monitor, USB out to DAC and the ability to control iTunes via Front Row with remote control. What do you recommend? Mini?

Thanks
Chris

avta · « **Reply #1 on:** 15 Dec 2007, 03:30 pm »

I have an older Mini G4 and have been surprised at how well it does with the few things that I do such as email, surfing, simple documents and music streaming to a Squeezebox2. If I were to but one now I would get the most recent version which has the Intel Core 2 duo processor and a Super drive with at least 1 gig of memory. I've had this thing for 2 years and have never had any down time.

TomS · « **Reply #2 on:** 15 Dec 2007, 03:31 pm »

Clayton Shaw (Emerald Physics) used the Mac Mini into a Wavelength Brick (1 tube DAC) and Modwright 36.5

at RMAF with iTunes and it seemed to be a great setup.

Beware of iTunes 7.5 unless Apple has their sampling problem fixed though (they're working on it).

Tom

Christof · « **Reply #3 on:** 15 Dec 2007, 03:51 pm »

Any nice small 12" displays to use with a Mini?

CAlbertson · « **Reply #4 on:** 29 Dec 2007, 07:27 am »

Quote from: Christof on 15 Dec 2007, 03:51 pm

Any nice small 12" displays to use with a Mini?

Look around for a small HD TV set. You should be able to find a 720P LCD TV.
The other option would be to buy a macbook. It will come with a buildtin 13"
screen

jaywills · « **Reply #5 on:** 29 Dec 2007, 12:01 pm »

Although it's slightly more expensive, you might consider an iMac refurb from the Apple Store (no affiliation):

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?nplm=FA589LL/A

Even cheaper if you qualify for their student discount. Good luck. Cordially,

shokunin · « **Reply #6 on:** 29 Dec 2007, 05:49 pm »

There will likely be new products at Macworld, which typically sends a horde of used mac products on ebay and other forums. If you're looking for used. Rumor has it that the mini is current out of production or at least temporarily unavailable, so who knows if it's just a temporary shortage or if we're getting a new mini at Macworld in January. Just wait til after Macworld to find out.

audioferret · « **Reply #7 on:** 29 Dec 2007, 07:45 pm »

I am currently using a mac mini as a server and it works wonderfully. If you are looking for aesthetics, the 500GB drive from LaCie is modeled to match and is daisy-chainable. The optical output of the mini will also let you easily integrate a DAC without having to use USB. Also, the DVI output can be used with monitors or projectors for a simple HTPC.

Enjoy.